Entertainment
No Joke—Funny Girl is a Knockout!

Funny Girl Shines Bright with Hannah Shankman’s Star Power.
January 28th, 2025
There’s nothing funnier than a Fanny—especially in this dazzling, heartfelt production of Funny Girl. The iconic tale of Fanny Brice, brought to life with incredible energy by the immensely talented Hannah Shankman, is an absolute showstopper at the Kravis Center.

Hannah Shankman as Fanny Brice in the National Tour of Funny Girl – Photo by Matthew Murphy for MurphyMade
A Jewish immigrant from Brooklyn in the early 1900s, Fanny Brice was never the conventional beauty of her time. But what she lacked in traditional glamour, she more than made up for with sheer determination, offbeat charisma, and unmatched comedic talent. Despite early rejection, she refused to abandon her dream of stardom, as powerfully depicted in the rousing number “I’m the Greatest Star.” Through resilience and undeniable stage presence, she finally earned a contract with the legendary Ziegfeld Follies, soaring to become the highest-paid performer of her era.
Shankman effortlessly captures Fanny’s bold, quirky, and endearing nature, making it impossible not to fall in love with the character. Her voice, both powerful and crystal-clear, remains consistently stunning throughout the performance. From the delicate emotions of “People” to the unshakable confidence of “Don’t Rain on My Parade,” Shankman delivers each number with a masterful blend of strength and vulnerability. At times, it felt as if the legendary Barbra Streisand herself was on stage—but Shankman makes the role her own, never feeling like a mere impersonation.
Of course, no Funny Girl production would be complete without a lively supporting cast, and this one does not disappoint. Melissa Manchester as Mrs. Brice is a delight, bringing both warmth and razor-sharp wit to the role. Her comedic timing, especially in “If a Girl Isn’t Pretty,” keeps the audience in stitches. Iziah Montaque Harris (Eddie) steals moments of his own, dazzling with not only his vocal prowess but also his show-stopping tap-dancing skills.

Melissa Manchester and Izaiah Montaque Harris in the National Tour of Funny Girl. Photo by Matthew Murphy for MurphyMade.
A particularly unforgettable scene is the famous “Pregnant Bride” number, where Fanny turns a classic showgirl moment into pure comedy gold. It’s a perfect example of the unconventional humor and charm that made Brice a legend in her time.
And then, there’s Nick Arnstein—the suave gambler who steals Fanny’s heart. Stephen Mark Lukas embodies the role with just the right mix of charm and danger, making it easy to see why Fanny falls so hard for him, even as the cracks in their love story begin to show.
From start to finish, this production of Funny Girl is an absolute triumph, blending humor, heart, and powerhouse performances into an unforgettable theatrical experience. If you have the chance to see it, don’t hesitate—this is one parade you won’t want to miss!
Entertainment
Unfiltered night with Marlon Wayans

Marlon Wayans Brings High Energy, Wild Stories and Big Laughs to The Center in Coral Springs. (more…)
Entertainment
CHICAGO at the Arsht Center Proves Crime Never Looked So Good

Come for the Murder, Stay for the Mezcal: CHICAGO at the Arsht Center Is a Glamorous Crime Spree You Won’t Regret.
Entertainment
Inside Florida Supercon

Supercon, Super Fun, Super Organized: How Chris D’Lando Channels His Inner Superhero to Keep Florida’s Biggest Fandom Party in Perfect Sync.
(more…)
Entertainment
Shucked and Awe: A Cornucopia of Comedy and Charm

Popcorn-Worthy Performances and Stalk-Shaking Laughs Make Shucked a Broadway Crop You Don’t Want to Miss.
(more…)
Entertainment
The Bodyguard Brings Generations Together

The Music, The Magic, The Emotion: Whitney Houston’s Spirit Soars in The Bodyguard Stage Adaptation.
(more…)
Entertainment
Marlon Wayans Drops the Mic in Coral Springs!!

From Scary Movies to Serious Laughs, Marlon Wayans Brings His Wild Child Ways to Coral Springs. (more…)
Entertainment
Charming Revival of I Do! I Do!

Wit, Warmth and Wedding Vows Take Center Stage in “I Do! I Do!” at the Pompano Beach Cultural Center.
(more…)
Entertainment
Peter Pan Takes Flight in Fort Lauderdale

Flying High on Happy Thoughts, Peter Pan Dazzles With Heart and Humor. (more…)
-
Music4 weeks ago
Metallica Triumph in Tampa With A Once In a Lifetime Night of Heavy Metal
-
Entertainment4 weeks ago
Shucked and Awe: A Cornucopia of Comedy and Charm
-
Music4 weeks ago
Country’s Past and Future Collide Under Florida Skies
-
Sports4 weeks ago
No Kicks, Just Carnage: The Brutal Rise of Dirty Boxing
-
Music4 weeks ago
A Night of Chaos and Charm with Dance Gavin Dance
-
Entertainment4 weeks ago
The Bodyguard Brings Generations Together
-
Music4 weeks ago
Rainbow Kitten Surprise: An Interview with Ela Melo
-
Restaurants2 weeks ago
3 Natives Delivers Healthy Food Without Compromise